[Elecraft] K3 eHam review after 2+ years

[Phil LaMarche]

I'll be waiting to see the responses to this email.  I think all of us
understood that the K3 was a work in process and that's part of the fun.
Certainly not like rice radio's that have to be sent back to the factory for
updates.  I'm proud and pleased with my K3.  I did get one already assembled
but that's because I'm age 70.  I love the radio and will be sending it back
in August for the 144 module and any other changes availiable at that time.
160-144.  I am pleased to have that capability in one radio that is one of
the best availiable.  Working 6 over the past 4 weeks and having a ball.  I
respect Howard's opinions and that's what great about our country.
Different personalities, different ideas.  All open to accept or reject.
Thank you Elecraft for being part of my 60 year experience in ham radio.

Happy 4th.

Phil 


Philip LaMarche 
LaMarche Enterprises, Inc.
www.instantgourmetspices.com

www.w9dvm.com 
800-395-7795 pin 02 
727-944-3226 
FAX 727-937-8834 
NASFT 30210 

K3  #1605

CCA 98  00827
CRA 1701

W9DVM 



-----Original Message-----
From: elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of HowardZ
Sent: Saturday, July 04, 2009 3:45 PM
To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3 eHam review after 2+ years


Well, I see the elecraft K3 as still a work in progress.

No, I am not referring to the firmware/software mods.

I am referring to continuing hardware mods.
The latest is the audio filter to make SSB audio actually sound good - like
a good radio sounds.

It was very nice of you all to buy the radios before everything worked
right, and provide feedback to Elecraft, and test the hardware and software
improvements, and open your multi-thousand dollar radios and stick your
soldering iron in there....

but that's not for me.
I want to buy a factory built radio - and be happy and done with it.

Now, some things just don't make any sense whatsoever to me - but must to
others.
Why in world will someone pay so much money for 10watt 2meter in their
elecraft, when they can buy a 50 watt 2m/70cm radio with more power, can be
used for MARS, and maybe even a built-in TNC for around the same amount?  I
don't know - maybe someone wants to do weak signal SSB on 2m?  Well with 10
watts you'll also be providing weak signals for others to enjoy - hihi.

I would never buy a new ICOM model in the first year - because usually there
are some hardware bugs found during the first year.  How many years should
one wait for Elecraft?  I'm not sure.

Then there is the K3's transmitter.  ARRL test reviews shows it on par with
the old 746pro's transmitter.  The Flex 5000's "new redesigned transmitter"
scores top of the class in ARRL testing.  Leaps and bounds better than the
K3's transmitter.   I bet Elecraft may soon be redesigning its transmitter
to meet or even 1-up Flex's transmitter.  Why not have the best cleanest
transmitter to go along with the best receiver?

Maybe I should wait for 2 years of no further hardware modifications - then
I'll know Elecraft finally finished the radio's hardware.  I just don't have
the self-confidence to go hardware-modding such an expensive radio.

So, you are enjoying the world's best receiver now....and I'll enjoy it a
few years from now.

Yes, I can think this and not write it.
But then you went and wrote how Elecraft has finished the radio.

No hard feelings.
Howard
--
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